Nuruddin posing for a photo with his autoshow car. – Photos by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (May 4): The motorsports community in Sarawak is keen to have proper facilities, with enthusiasts and event organisers alike calling for the development of a dedicated drag racing track to support the growing interest in the sport.
According to Torque of Borneo 2026 project director Shirajuddin Bolhi, the absence of a proper venue has long been a challenge for the community.
“I strongly agree with the plan to build a drag racing track. It is very good for the motorsports community, because we currently do not have a proper venue,” he said.
He said a previous drag racing event held in Demak was not ideal, stressing a dedicated facility would prioritise safety particularly for high-risk disciplines such as drift or drag racing.
“When we talk about drag and drift, the risk of accidents is very high. With a proper track and safety measures, we can reduce those risks,” he added.
Shirajuddin Bolhi
Shirajuddin also pointed out that a proper facility could help curb illegal street racing by providing youths with a safer alternative.
Recently, Sarawak Motorsports Association (SMA) president Senator Dato Ahmad Ibrahim revealed that a proposed drag racing track will be developed in Balai Ringin, with a decision on its development expected by the end of the year.
Meanwhile, Nuruddin Mohd Husahari of OCD Event Management said the demand for drag racing events has been evident for years.
“It has been a long time since such events were held in Kuching. The last one was back in the 2010s at Metrocity. Now, we are planning to organise one again, but we are still looking at suitable locations,” he said.
On the proposed location of the drag racing track, Nuruddin said distance should not be a major concern.
“Of course, being closer to the city is more convenient, but we cannot demand too much. Having a track at all is already enough. At least people can run their cars and motorcycles regularly,” he said.
He added that the facility would also benefit local automotive workshops, many of which currently rely on accessory sales due to limited racing activities.
Mohd Syazwan Arfan
For enthusiasts like Mohd Syazwan Arfan, the lack of a proper track has long been an issue, particularly among younger fans of the sport.
“It is better to have a proper track so we can gradually reduce illegal racing,” he stressed.
He added that Balai Ringin’s location could serve as a central meeting point, attracting participants not only from within Sarawak but also from Sabah and neighbouring countries such as Brunei.
“My hope is simply that the track will include basic amenities such as grandstands and proper viewing areas.
“Even if entry is ticketed, it is not an issue as the revenue will be channelled back into maintaining the facilities,” he said.
Zamarul shows off his motorcycle during Torque of Borneo 2026.
Meanwhile, Zamarul Hisham, 23, said even a basic track would be sufficient to meet the needs of the community.
“Many people are racing in random places because there is no proper facility. For me, just having a track is already enough,” he said, adding that he only began participating in the sport in 2023.
Khairul Adzhan Hassanuddin
For Khairul Adzhan Hassanuddin, 31, the development of a proper track could open doors for local talent.
“It can expand opportunities for motorsports in Sarawak and help develop young talent to compete at higher levels. At the same time, it may gradually reduce illegal street racing,” he said.
